Rains disrupt life in Pir Panjal

Rajouri, Aug 12: In the wake of continuous heavy rainfall, normal life in Rajouri and Poonch districts of the Pir Panjal region was disrupted on Tuesday with authorities ordering the closure of all schools across the region as a precautionary measure.

The directive was issued by the respective Chief Education Officers (CEOs) in view of safety concerns.

Meanwhile, several key roads were blocked following multiple landslides triggered by the downpour.

Officials said that the vital Rajouri-Thanamandi-Surankote inter-district road, which also serves as a crucial link to the Mughal Road, remained closed for over six hours, leaving hundreds of vehicles stranded on either side.

Other key stretches, including the Kotranka-Khawas road, Khawas-Moughla road, and the Odhan PMGSY road, also came to a standstill due to heavy debris and mudslides.

Restoration work was launched by the local administration and road maintenance agencies, though officials warned that continued rainfall may delay clearance efforts.

Authorities advised the residents to avoid unnecessary travel and remain alert in view of the heightened risk of further landslides in hilly areas.

FLASH FLOOD DAMAGES HIGH SCHOOL IN SURANKOTE

A flash flood hit Government High School Sanai in Surankote area of Poonch district on Monday night, causing significant damage to the school property.

According to officials, the sudden floodwaters swept away a 200-foot-long shed adjacent to the school building, along with a sports room containing official records and sports equipment.

The incident occurred when heavy rain triggered a strong water surge in the area.

While no casualties were reported, the loss of infrastructure and important school records has raised concerns among the local community, officials said.

Authorities are assessing the damage, and restoration measures are expected to be initiated soon, they said.